Barcelona on a budget

Barcelona is not a city to see in a hurry.

With Mediterranean beaches, parks and a café society to rival the best of them, even a spending a weekend in the Catalan capital is pushing it for time.

And this is not to mention seeing the city's famous Gaudi-designed landmarks and the Picasso Museum.

Cost is always a concern when taking a longer break, but coach operator Eurolines has compiled a list of relaxing things to do in Barcelona that will allow you to absorb the full Catalan experience, at the pace you are supposed to, without spending a fortune.

A visit to the Sagrada Familia Cathedral, designed by Antioni Gaudi, should be your starting point, followed up by a trip to the Picasso Museum, which will enchant art lovers ranging from the mildly curious to the devoted.

To relax, head to Park Guell – another Gaudi design – where you will find great views across the city.

Then up the pace, albeit just a little, by heading to Barcelona's most famous street – Las Ramblas – where the city's residents like to relax and soak up the free street entertainment.

A trip to the beach can take up a day or two on its own. Several beaches with clean sand and water lie just 25 minutes from the city centre, including Nova Icaria and Bogatell.

On a sporting theme, hop on a cable car to Montjuic and the Olympic Village.

The cable ride offers stunning views of the city, and once at the top tourists can take a leisurely stroll around the impressive architecture of venues for the 1992 Olympics before heading to the National Museum of Catalan Art, and the 18th century splendour of Castell de Montjuic, now home to the city's military museum.

By spending longer in Barcelona, you will have time to indulge in the café culture and enjoy the tapas served in bars and restaurants throughout the city.

For a cheaper lunch head to one of the markets. La Boqueria is the best of the food markets in the city and is open six days a week.

Why not pack a picnic and head to the Parc de la Cuitadella for some live jazz every Wednesday and Friday from 10:00pm.

And if all this relaxing leaves you with some excess energy, why not try some salsa. Barcelona has some great salsa clubs which will only be too happy for you to join in.

Eurolines operates services to Barcelona six times a week with prices starting from just £72 return with no extra charges or taxes. For more information, go to: www.eurolines.co.uk